On March 14, 2025, Eva Tzoumpa Human Resource Services, together with the Cyprus Hotel Managers Association (CyHMA) and the Center for Social Innovation (CSI), co-organized the Women Empowerment in Tourism Conference at the Golden Bay Beach Hotel.
Under the auspices of the President of the House of Representatives, and with funding from the National Mechanism for Women’s Rights and the Human Resource Development Authority (HRDA), the event focused on leadership, workplace equality, and the creation of support networks for women leaders in tourism.
The Conference
The program combined presentations, panel discussions, and practical sessions. Participants explored strategies to strengthen leadership skills, address workplace and sexual harassment, and promote inclusive workplace cultures.
Key topics included:
- Presentation of the European program “Weed Out Occupational Violence from HORECA.”
- Development of the legal framework on workplace and sexual harassment.
- Two interactive panels with leaders from the hotel and tourism sectors.
- Tools for building leadership confidence, effective team management, and peer support networks.
Participants & Discussions
The conference brought together policymakers, hoteliers, HR professionals, trade unions, and local authorities. The President of the House of Representatives, Ms Annita Demetriou, actively participated in the opening session, acknowledging challenges women face in tourism and offering concrete proposals to advance gender equality.
Highlights from the discussions included:
- Establishing anonymous complaint mechanisms in workplaces.
- Introducing a Code of Practice for preventing and addressing harassment.
- Supporting women in leadership positions and dismantling stereotypes.
- Recognizing equality as a mindset and lived culture, not only as policy.
- Mentorship as a key driver for empowerment and professional growth.
Acknowledgements
This initiative by Eva Tzoumpa Human Resource Services was co-organized with CyHMA and CSI. It was made possible thanks to the support of the National Mechanism for Women’s Rights, HRDA, and under the auspices of the President of the House of Representatives.
Special thanks go to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the Commissioner for Gender Equality, the Cyprus Ombudsman and the Famagusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as to all panelists and participants whose contributions enriched the dialogue.
The Women Empowerment in Tourism – Conference 2025 created a powerful space for honesty, connection, and collective action. By addressing barriers and sharing practical tools, it marked a meaningful step towards a more inclusive and equitable tourism industry in Cyprus.
